Abstract Background: Metals such as iron, zinc, and copper are critical and necessary for the survival of all living organisms, whereas xenobiotic metals such as lead, cadmium, mercury, and arsenic have no known biologic role. Any metals in high doses can have toxic effects. The aim of this work was to evaluate the hematological changes induced by lead as a toxic metal and characterize the potential efficacy of Deferasirox in removing lead from bodies of male rats. Methods: Lead was given to rats at two doses of 40 (low dose of drinking lead) and 80 mg/kg (high dose of drinking lead). After 60 days of lead administration, chelation therapy was carried out for two weeks and then clinical, biochemical and haematological parameters were compared with the lead-free control group. Results: The results showed a decrease in iron level, hematocrit, red blood cells count, hemoglobin concentration, mean cellular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin and mean corpuscular hemoglobin concentration, after lead administration. Chelation therapy with Deferasirox (DFX) significantly reduced blood lead level, and iron concentrations returned to normal levels simultaneously. Conclusion: Deferasirox significantly reduced blood lead level along with normalizing iron. The symptoms of toxicity were also reduced and iron deficiency anemia following lead administration was obviated.

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